The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care the value of it will increase over time.

We've compiled a list of options to aid you in making a choice. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles which are still found in many outfits.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were needed to carry war supplies. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were now able to experiment with their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and chainmail. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade of the decade, and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are often named after a famous Handbag designers person and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it can take months, or even weeks to get your hands on one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you can't be without an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer handbags black bags around is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most famous designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable people and is another bag from the designer handbags sale outlet that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory but the brand has now moved away from this logo design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

The brand was established in 1952 and Famous handbag designers is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion, you know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinct design.

There are a variety of designer names who make their mark through beautiful handbags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a name for themselves in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label that was founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's wear and bags that are extremely popular like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favourites. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. The bags of the brand have a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another option to think about is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its products on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the ideal way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.